Is it "hot air"? My gums are swollen and sore!

Hong Kong people have a traditional concept that it is "Hot air" (internal heat) that causes discomfort in the gums. Many people think that drinking herbal tea can relieve the discomfort. They also think that this mild condition could be improved by avoiding deep fried food and sleeping well. However, these remedies can only provide symptomatic relief without treating the root of the problem.

Gum discomfort is mainly caused by periodontal disease (gum disease). After checking the teeth, the dentist will advise you to have your teeth cleaned by scaling. Scaling removes the prime causes of periodontal disease (gum disease) - dental plaque and calculus. After scaling, you should maintain your teeth clean and the gum health will be restored.

Although most people in Hong Kong brush their teeth twice daily, it does not mean that they do not suffer from dental disease. Proper teeth cleaning with appropriate tools is the only way to keep your teeth and gums healthy.